If no medical evidence is provided for a claim, what action does the VA take?

When the VA receives a claim but does not have sufficient medical evidence to support it, the standard practice is to hold the claim pending receipt of that evidence. This means that the VA recognizes the claim as valid but requires additional documentation to evaluate the merits of the case. The claimant is typically notified of the need for the missing medical evidence and will be given a chance to submit it.

Holding the claim pending allows the claimant time to provide necessary documentation without the stress of an immediate denial. It reflects the VA's commitment to thoroughly reviewing each claim and ensuring that veterans have the opportunity to present their case fully. By doing this, the VA seeks to ensure fairness and accuracy in its claims processing, allowing for a more informed decision when the necessary medical evidence is received.